Lincoln Castle restoration project nominated for national award

The £22 million revamp of one of Lincoln’s most iconic landmarks has been shortlisted for a national award.

Lincoln Castle Revealed has made the finals of The National Lottery Awards, competing against six others in a public vote for the title of Best Heritage Project.

The annual awards aim to find the UK’s favourite Lottery-funded projects, celebrating the difference they have made to people, places and communities across the UK.

The winners, set to be announced in August, will receive national recognition on a BBC One TV show in late September and a £2,000 cash prize.

Members of the castle team have already been drumming up support for the attraction, using the 131st Lincolnshire Show to launch their campaign.

The newly renovated attraction has also received a royal seal of approval by Princess Anne on her visit to the city, and was host to a dramatic performance by Britain’s Got Talent winners Diversity to mark the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta.

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Councillor Nick Worth, Executive Member for Culture and Heritage, said: “Lincoln Castle Revealed has transformed the site into a world-class tourist attraction.

“And it’s made a flying start since re-opening in April, with more than 75,000 visitors through the gates so far.

“The project was only made possible thanks to the hard work of literally hundreds of people, and I think we would be a worthy winner of the Best Heritage Project award.

“However, we can only get there with your backing. Every vote counts, so we’d really appreciate your support!”

Voting for the awards opened at 9am on June 24 and ends at midnight on July 29.